Best Bars In Covent Garden

• Address: St. Martin's Courtyard, 7-9 Slingsby Place, WC2E 9AB
• Best For: Nikkei and creative cocktails

Situated in St. Martin's Courtyard, Oriole is a speakeasy-style bar which serves fantastic cocktails and an array of tasty Nikkei-inspired small plates. Not only is there live piano music every single night, but you can also tuck into the likes of beef tartare and ceviche.

Pair these bites with delicious concoctions like the grapefruit-infused Acadia or an elderflower-flavoured Blue Ray Martini, served with eye-catching adornments. Plus, you can expect live jazz, cabaret and world music performances in the evenings.

• Address: 50, Earlham St, WC2H 9LJ
• Best For: Activities

For a great time out in Covent Garden, look no further than Bat & Ball Covent Garden (with a spot in Stratford, too). With a range of signature cocktails, craft beers, and an extensive drinks list, this place has everything you need to unwind and have fun.

Whether you're sipping a classic cocktail or trying something new, the bar staff are always ready to mix up something special. Pair it with delicious bites like wood-fired pizzas or juicy burgers, and you're set for a fantastic night in one of London's most energetic spots. If you're ever in East London, check out their Stratford venue instead.

• Address: 6-7 Great Newport Street, WC2H 7JB
• Best For: Live music

If you're in search of decadence and glamour, then this is one of the best Covent Garden bars. You'll be treated to live piano party sessions and a basement haunt that's renowned as one of the godfathers of the cocktail world.

Some of the West End's best musicians perform here on a regular basis, in a space inspired by New York City and the prohibition era. What's more, they offer cocktail masterclasses for groups of four or more.

• Address: 77, Kingsway, WC2B 8SR
• Best For: New York vibes

A New York-inspired bar, restaurant, and takeaway deli close to Holborn tube station, Elaine's is a lively spot where you can enjoy some expertly crafted cocktails. Expect simple wooden furnishings and a marble-topped bar, lit up with pretty gold lights.

Sip sophisticated drinks alongside an American-style food menu - featuring everything from layered burrata salads to salt beef sandwiches and hot dogs topped with Swiss cheese.

• Address: 11-14 Hanover Place, WC2E 9JP
• Best For: A technological twist on your evening

Inamo is the tech-savvy Londoner's best mate. Head here for a unique experience as head chef Jon Claro knocks up a menu of delightful pan-Asian grub, which is all ordered using their interactive tabletop screens.

You can share out some delicious sushi platters and smaller tapas plates, before heading downstairs to the intimate bar area for Asian-inspired cocktails. Even better? There's a games room downstairs too.

• Address: 20 Bedford Street, WC2E 9HP
• Best For: A lively night out

Blame Gloria is a mayhem of seriously fun atmosphere and masterful mixology when it comes to their cocktails. Set in a basement of exposed brick archways, this Covent Garden resident is an underground playground of classic party tunes, cheap, cheerful drinks deals and all round fun. 

You can always count on them for a lively atmosphere, and not just in the evening either. Their bottomless brunches are legendary, themed around ABBA, Grease, disco and more.

• Address: 63-66 St Martin's Lane, WC2N 4JS
• Best For: Inventive cocktails

One of the slickest bars in Covent Garden, this St Martins Lane bar and restaurant offers some of the most innovative mixology in the area. Head in for the chance to sample some of their signature sips, whether it be a fizzer, a smoker, or one that lights up.

If you get hungry, there are scrumptious plates like katsu curry, tempura fish and chips or halloumi flatbread to get stuck into - and they also offer a killer bottomless brunch.

• Address: 45 St Martin's Lane, WC2N 4HX
• Best For: Secret sips

A cool, secret bar in Covent Garden, Blind Spot at St Martins Lane is perfect for those wanting discreet and delicious drinks. From strong serves to the classics, this dimly-lit location promises a luxe cocktail experience just shy of the main strip.

You'll find this place behind the façade of a boutique tea counter, with a secret golden hand-shaped handle to let you in. Visiting on a Saturday night? There'll be live DJs playing from 9pm onwards.

• Address: Zero Aldwych (outside the Lyceum), Wellington Street, WC2E 7DN
• Best For: Drag shows

Cellar Door is one of the best bars in Covent Garden - an intimate, hidden gem offering an unforgettable mix of premium cocktails, live entertainment, and an electric atmosphere.

Nestled beneath the pavement outside the Lyceum Theatre, this stylish bar provides everything from drag queens and burlesque shows to magicians, all in a space with just 60 seats, ensuring a personalised experience for every guest.

• Address: 12 Old Compton Street, W1D 4TQ
• Best For: Amazing cocktails

Created by the successful group behind the Nightjar, Swift is a cocktail bar that's forever changed the way we think of a 'quick drink'. The fast paced team of mixologists use a vast collection of exotic ingredients to serve their guests truly intriguing concoctions. 

The upstairs provides European aperitivo vibes, while downstairs you'll find a more relaxed atmosphere for laid-back sipping. There's a different drinks menu on each floor, featuring the likes of rhubarb and custard cocktails or an Aperol, strawberry and basil blend.

• Address: 27 The Market, WC2E 8RD
• Best For: Great quality wines

Sat right in the heart of Covent Garden this great bar and restaurant offers a stunning selection of wines, alongside a tasty food menu and one of the most buzzing atmospheres in the area. Topping it off is the indoor-outdoor terrace, perfect for summer cocktail sipping. 

Part of the Davy's wine group, you can expect top quality tipples here. And if you're hungry, the kitchen is slinging out the likes of chargrilled sirloin steaks, burrata tomato linguine or sweet potato and red onion tart.

Make your way to Somerset House to discover Setlist, a stunning bar, restaurant and event space on the terrace. You can enjoy stunning views of the Thames while you're here, while enjoying their regular lineup of live music, DJ sets and art installations.

Feeling peckish? There's a talented team of female chefs in the kitchen, preparing tasty international dishes such as fried plantain, Baja fish tacos and fennel sausage pizza.

• Address: 42 William IV Street, WC2N 4DD
• Best For: Two-for-one cocktails

Looking for a party spot that won't break the bank? Then be sure to check out Tequila Mockingbird for some top-notch drinks. Whether you're heading in for their epic happy hours or some Instagram-worthy pics in their cool basement space, you definitely won't regret it.

This and their Lyceum venue are all about good times, from boozy brunches to DJ sets. And if you're after 2 for 1 cocktails in Covent Garden? They offer that too.

• Address: 42 Drury Lane, WC2B 5AJ
• Best For: Wine and small plates

Why head to any old boring bar when you can pop into Cecilia's Wine House? This Drury Lane venue has a boatload of tasty serves up for grabs from all over the world that can be enjoyed with loved ones - making it one of the best wine bars in Covent Garden by far.

Their wines by the glass start from just £6.50, and there are great value bottles if you want to take some home. To accompany your sips, they serve Italian cheese and small plates.

• Address: 41 Great Queen St, WC2B 5AA
• Best For: Pizza and cocktails

Located on Great Queen Street, Lockes Bar is a grand shout when it comes to drinking destinations. Sip on everything from brambles and whiskey sours to margaritas and pineapple daiquiris.

Hungry? These folks have lip-smacking Neapolitan sourdough pizzas, alongside sharing boards and small plates. And from 4 to 6pm every day, you can nab any pizza and cocktail for just £22.

• Address: 2nd Floor, 9 Russell Street, WC2B 5HZ
• Best For: Date night

Escape from the bustling West End streets with a trip to Dovetail Bar, hidden away above a restaurant. This intimate venue boasts refined interiors - think blue velvet bar stools, exposed wooden walls and quirky artwork, as well as relaxing beats in the background.

As for the drinks? Expect exciting twists on the classics like the piña colada with Dulce de leche and sweet sherry, or a crystal clear rum and coke.

• Address: 19 Henrietta Street, WC2E 8QH
• Best For: Bottomless brunch

Nestled on Henrietta Street, All Bar One is simply perfect for pre-theatre or post-dinner drinks in the heart of the city. While there's a fantastic selection of cocktails, beers and wines up for grabs, you can also dive into delicious small plates.

Food offerings include Korean barbecue chicken burgers, king prawn pad Thai and crispy mushroom arancini. Topping it all off? They offer bottomless brunches for only £38.

• Address: 24-26, Russell Street, WC2B 5HF
• Best For: Happy hours

Be At One excels at hosting pretty much any form of party. Whether you're planning an intimate first date, a raucous happy hour session or late-night dancing antics, Be At One has you covered.

Find your way round to this basement bar if your idea of a good night involves a comprehensive list of cocktails and those guilty pleasure party tunes. Not in the area? Check out their Lyceum venue instead.

• Address: 35 Earlham Street, WC2H 9LD
• Best For: A quirky drinking experience

The Escapologist is an intriguing hangout that pays homage to the erratic behaviour and mythical reputation of the infamous Baron. It describes itself as part modern day Victorian men's club and part Masonic lodge, so you know you're in for a unique night out.

This basement bar is based at the HQ of the secret society that ran Victorian London and promises great times, sharing cocktails and cheese boards. Wondering what to order? We recommend the gin and elderflower London Lady.

• Address: Gillian Lynne Theatre, Parker Street, WC2B 5PW
• Best For: Theatrical entertainment

After Covent Garden bars with music? Get on down to The Piano Works West End, an entertainment-led restaurant and bar, for one hell of a night out. Live vocalists, singing waitresses and a full six-piece band are at hand to take your song requests, plus there's plenty of tasty food and drinks to enjoy too.

Their menu features everything from calamari with sriracha mayo to spiced vegan burgers or glazed pork ribs. They also have a daily happy hour from 5 to 7pm, so you may just bag a bargain here as well.

• Address: Page 8, St. Martin's Place, WC2N 4JH
• Best For: Rooftop views

Escape the hustle and bustle of London's West End and ascend to Kitty Hawk Rooftop Bar & Restaurant, located at the top of Page 8 Hotel. This stunning venue boasts a captivating atmosphere, with golden lighting and burnt orange furnishings creating a truly enchanting space.

Delight in a variety of set menus, including pre-theatre dining and a la carte options. And to complement your meal? Indulge in classic cocktails whipped up by expert mixologists like a whiskey old fashioned or a negroni. 

• Address: 23 Catherine Street, WC2B 5JS
• Best For: Cocktails and quality food

With the team behind Salt Yard at the helm of this Covent Garden bar and restaurant, you already know that the menu is going to be a mouthwatering one. The interiors are just as enticing though, flaunting a gold-leaf ceiling and striking graphic prints by artists like Ben Eine.

Go for tapas like 'nduja scotch eggs or patatas bravas all washed down with a classic cocktail, vermouth or a world-class wine. Or for a larger appetite, the slow-cooked Iberian pork belly is a must-try.

• Address: 1 Upper St Martins Lane, WC2H 9NY
• Best For: A casual atmosphere

A vibrant after work hangout, weekend party spot and relaxed dining destination in the same stroke, The Long Acre is many different things to many different people. There are four HD screens that are perfect for sports fans, and there's even an underground club with a dancefloor downstairs.

Stop by after work and enjoy some evening cocktails, and don't be surprised to find yourself hanging around long into the night. Feeling peckish? There's everything from stone-baked pizza to gourmet burgers keeping you fuelled.

• Address: Ground Floor, Strand Palace Hotel, 372 Strand, WC2R 0JJ
• Best For: Hotel bars

After a top-notch hotel bars in Covent Garden? Then check out Haxells Restaurant & Bar. Situated on the ground floor of the Strand Palace Hotel, this gorgeous venue has a range of fabulous tipples, including Champagne and spirits, to be enjoyed with British plates.

Expect sleek grey interiors with a modern feel to them, with comfy booth seating to relax on. As for the dishes, think baked aubergine, corn-fed chicken or sea bass fillet.

• Address: 39 Bow Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 7AU
• Best For: A buzzing pub vibe

Looking for a traditional boozer? Then make your way to Marquess of Anglesey, a good old pub with plenty of character. The three-storey space views of the local area from its top floor, and a retractable roof that makes for a gorgeous outdoor terrace in the summer months.

Enjoy their fabulous range of small plates or opt for a full-blown Sunday roast - you definitely won't be disappointed. As for drinks, think cracking cocktails and refreshing pints.

• Address: 142 Shaftesbury Avenue, WC2H 8HJ
• Best For: Craft beer

When it comes to bars in the West End, BrewDog has it all. From 20 taps serving the best craft beer on draught, as well as, a function room which provides a space for private parties and exclusive events, this is a great multi-purpose space.

It's not just the drinks that these guys have got going for them. Their mouthwatering menu features Carolina chicken burgers, beer-battered cauliflower wings and mac 'n' cheese topped with crispy onions. What's more, you can get bottomless wings on Wednesdays.

• Address: 10 Henrietta Street, WC2 E8PS
• Best For: Entertainment

Head to Mrs Riot, an immersive bistro and cocktail bar in Covent Garden. Boasting a wide range of live music each night from sultry jazz to funk tunes, this spot is a must for date night or to catch up with friends over some booze and nibbles.

You can secure some cracking drinks deals here, from £8 signature cocktails during their weekday happy hour to 50% off cocktails and food on Mondays, and you'll find raucous drag brunches every single Saturday.

• Address: 11-12 Russell Street, WC2B 5HZ
• Best For: Cheap drinks and good vibes

A favourite for their signature martini, Dirty Martini's Covent Garden joint is a low lit lair of cool graphic artwork, teal accented furnishings and dark finished woods. If you are looking for drinks in a stylish and buzzy atmosphere then this could be the one for you.

They also offer one of the best value happy hours around, until 8pm on weekdays and all day Sunday. Think £7 cocktails, £25 prosecco bottles and bottles of beer for just £4.50.

• Address: 34-35 Southampton Street, WC2E 7HG
• Best For: A cocktail-fuelled night out

Head underneath Covent Garden and you'll find a real place of temptation and indulgence. This Garden of Eden is a basement bar that serves up hedonistic cocktails in a luxurious setting – and they're known to host amazing live music too.

Eve by Adam Handling is part of Frog restaurant, and they use the parts of ingredients that can't be used on the main Frog menu in drinks and snacks here - taking a sustainable approach to food and drink.

• Address: The Piazza, WC2E 8RF
• Best For: Fusion dining

A restaurant and bar that has earned itself a prestigious name all over the world, SUSHISAMBA's Covent Garden outpost is locate din The Piazza. The interiors are truly gorgeous, fronting extravagant displays of foliage and plush red velvet booths.

Its unique blend of Peruvian, Brazilian and Japanese cuisine features diverse flavours like yellowtail avocado and roasted corn miso taquitos or yuzu lobster. There are some killer cocktails up for grabs as well - we're talking sake spritzes or a spiced maple and dark chocolate twist on the espresso martini.

• Address: 336-337, Strand, WC2R 1HA
• Best For: Views of Covent Garden

Sitting pretty above one of London's best boutique hotels, Radio Rooftop is one of the most sought after rooftop bars in Covent Garden. With delicious cocktails and stunning views across the city, it's a perfect spot for a date night or a special occasion. 

They run a happy hour from 12 to 7pm between Sunday and Friday, promising deals on drinks like lychee vodka cocktails or fine wines. There's also an Asian-inspired food menu to tuck into, featuring spicy tuna maki rolls, crispy duck bao and aubergine with ginger miso.

• Address: 27-29 Endell Street, WC2H 9BA
• Best For: Watching sports

One of the most unique bars around, Bloodsports combines a classic American sports bar vibe with a venue inspired by horror films. As such, they show both live sports and eerie movies across their 30 HD screens dotted around the room.

If you fancy a little competition of your own, they've also got a pool table, pinball machines, and arcade games, as well as karaoke. Feeling peckish? MEATliquor are in the kitchen, cooking up everything from double beef burgers to chilli cheese hotdogs and Buffalo wings.